With such a small population of San Clemente Island goats, diversification in conservation strategies is important for the overall preservation of the breed.  Collecting bucks and does and cryogenically storing these genetics in a secure, professional and accessible location is an ideal conservation option.

Semen collection requires collaborating with a veterinarian or a collection service and getting all the logistics in place.

The SCIGBA now has its own Gene Bank. We envision this as a future resource where breeders can obtain unrelated genetics for their herd without having to house or transporting bucks. We envision more semen collection occurring and encourage each breeder to consider accomplishing this sooner than later. Our Gene Bank is a place where breeders can donate semen straws, and make them available to other breeders, without any storage fees.

Another way to preserve genetic material is to collect tissue samples from goats who have just died. This stores the tissue for possible cloning or does or bucks in the future. Through The Livestock Conservancy, with TransOva Genetics, www.transova.com, because of the rare status of our breed, we can obtain a reduced rate to store the tissue with no annual storage fees. This method is extremely time sensitive. The tissue must be obtained, stored in a refrigerator and arrive at TransOva in just 5 days post mortem.

Contact your Genetics Chair at genetics@scigba.org for more help or information.